Lesser Nighthawk vs Chuck-will's-widow

In short

The Lesser Nighthawk and Chuck-will's-widow are both nocturnal birds in the Caprimulgidae family, but they differ in size, plumage, and vocalizations. The Lesser Nighthawk is smaller and more cryptically colored, while the Chuck-will's-widow is larger with a more pronounced vocal presence.

Identification tips

• Size: Look for the larger size of the Chuck-will's-widow.
• Plumage: Note the white wing crescents on the Lesser Nighthawk.
• Vocalization: Listen for the distinctive trill of the Lesser Nighthawk versus the song of the Chuck-will's-widow.
• Behavior: Observe foraging behavior; Lesser Nighthawks often forage in groups, while Chuck-will's-widows may forage alone on the ground.

Size

The Chuck-will's-widow is noticeably larger than the Lesser Nighthawk.

Plumage

Lesser Nighthawks are mottled brown, buff, and black with distinctive white wing crescents, whereas Chuck-will's-widows have a more uniform brown and gray plumage without the white wing markings.

Behaviour

Lesser Nighthawks often forage in pairs or groups, flying low over the ground, while Chuck-will's-widows may hunt alone and are sometimes seen foraging on the ground under street lamps during molt.

Habitat

Lesser Nighthawks are typically found in arid and semiarid habitats, while Chuck-will's-widows are more likely to be found in open woodlands and have been expanding their range north and west.

Voice

The Lesser Nighthawk is known for its toad-like trill, while the Chuck-will's-widow has a distinctive onomatopoeic song, often heard at dawn, dusk, and during full moon nights.